Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Many people know that being overweight or obese increases the risk of health issues like heart disease and diabetes. However, fewer people realize that excess weight can also impact fertility and increase the likelihood of pregnancy complications! If you are trying to conceive, getting closer to a healthy weight can improve your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby. Why is this and what should you know if weight (either gaining or losing) is a concern for you?
Weight Challenges and Pregnancy Complications
Let's start by looking at some of the common pregnancy complications that are linked with being overweight or obese.
Miscarriages
Too much weight has been tied to an increased risk of miscarriage. Hormonal imbalances and poor egg quality can make it harder for a pregnancy to develop successfully.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy condition that causes high blood pressure and organ damage. This usually happens after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Obesity increases the risk of preeclampsia, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby.
Hypertension
High blood pressure during pregnancy, also called gestational hypertension, can lead to complications. These include preterm birth and an increased risk of developing chronic hypertension later in life.
Gestational Diabetes
Obesity also raises the risk of gestational diabetes! This is a condition where blood sugar levels get too high during pregnancy. This can lead to complications like larger-than-average babies, birth injuries, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes for both mother and child.
Stillbirth
Research has shown that maternal obesity increases the risk of stillbirth. This is because of factors like poor placental function, increased inflammation, and metabolic issues that can impact the baby's development.
When Can Weight Loss Help You Get Pregnant?
Not all cases of infertility are because of weight, but obesity can add to hormonal imbalances that make it harder to conceive. Here’s how weight loss can improve fertility:
- Hormone Regulation: Too much weight can cause hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation. Losing weight can help restore a regular menstrual cycle and improve ovulation.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS often struggle with insulin resistance, which makes it harder to conceive. Losing weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce symptoms of PCOS. This will increase the chances of pregnancy.
- Better Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels: Weight loss can reduce blood sugar and improve insulin resistance, which is particularly helpful for women with PCOS.
- Improved Blood Pressure and Heart Health: Lowering blood pressure and keeping healthy cholesterol levels can make a safer environment for pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications.
- Increased IVF Success: Obesity has been linked to lower success rates in assisted reproductive treatments like in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Losing weight before starting IVF can improve outcomes.
A lot of people have started using weight loss injections like GLP-1s (Wegovy and Ozempic). However, their impact on fertility is still being studied. While weight loss from these medications can help with hormones and improve metabolic health, it is important to talk to a doctor before using them when trying to conceive. Some weight loss medications are not recommended during pregnancy, and you may need to stop them before trying to get pregnant.
If you are planning to start a family, getting to a healthy weight can improve your fertility and pregnancy outcomes! While weight loss does not guarantee conception, it can help regulate hormones, improve ovulation, and reduce pregnancy-related complications. Small, sustainable changes to diet and exercise can make a big difference. Remember, even modest weight loss can lead to significant improvements in fertility and overall health.
Take charge of your health with PatientsLikeMe, the innovative platform that empowers you to manage your wellness journey with confidence. Connect with others who share similar health experiences and gain access to their valuable insights and support.